The reception to RTA’s performance of the Broadway play, “Thoughts of a Colored Man” in Green Haven Correctional Facility by acclaimed writer Keenan Scott II was nothing short of remarkable. The RTA cast and crew exceeded expectations, breathing life and unique meaning into Scott’s writing with an electrifying performance.
Watch: Playwright and Director Keenan Scott II discusses the production of Thoughts of a Colored Man at Green Haven on CNN’s NewsNight with Abby Phillip
The music for the show was performed live by RTA participants and the set design was created by the visual artists in the program. “Thoughts of a Colored Man” seamlessly blends humor, sorrow, fear, hope, and joy through the lens of men of color in America, delving into the multifaceted struggles they face. This performance was especially profound because it was held in a maximum-security prison.
For the participants of Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA), this story resonated deeply, mirroring their own experiences in many ways. The energy in the room was palpable, transporting audience members away from the confines of the prison walls and into the streets of Brooklyn, thanks to the exceptional acting prowess of the cast, alongside the talent of the production crew—all of whom are RTA members.
The feedback from the performance was overwhelmingly positive, with many attendees expressing how they were completely absorbed in the production. This was a rare opportunity for the audience to witness the humanity behind prison walls. For the participants’ family members in the audience that night, it offered a chance to see how arts programming can make a positive impact on their child’s life while incarcerated.
Reunions with family members, long separated, added an extra layer of emotion to the experience, fueling the passion of those involved in the production even further.
Here are some heartfelt quotes from those who attended the performance:
“Saw this tonight. I don’t think I have ever been so moved by any production ever. You were all brilliant. What a beautiful, beautiful thing you did. Thank you. I’ll never forget it as long as I live.” – RTA supporter
“I saw the play last night. To inspire creativity and passion in that space… it truly is divine work. God bless you all ❤️” – Family member of an RTA participant
We are grateful to all the dedicated individuals involved in bringing this production to life! Photos from the evening can be viewed here.
RTA’s theatrical productions are the hallmark of our organization. They involve months of meticulous preparation and a significant financial investment, in addition to the regular programs RTA offers. Would you consider starting a new monthly gift today to support them? A donation of $40 per month funds an individual’s participation in an RTA production.
